Kenya’s President William Ruto has mandated a review of plans to increase salaries for members of the cabinet and parliament following significant public backlash.
This decision follows mass protests against a controversial finance bill proposing tax hikes, which Mr. Ruto eventually abandoned.
Citizens questioned the rationale behind raising politicians’ salaries, including those of governors, during a financial crisis.
The proposed 2%-5% salary increase for all state officials, including judges, was recommended by the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC), which issued the notice last year for implementation this month.
Public Service Minister Moses Kuria stated that he would not implement the pay raises for the cabinet. Several lawmakers, including ruling coalition senator Aaron Cheruiyot and opposition MP Adan Keynan, criticized the proposed increases as “tone-deaf.”
Opposition senator Edwin Sifuna echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the need to reduce the taxpayer burden.
On Tuesday, Samuel Njoroge, clerk of the National Assembly, told People Daily that the SRC’s recommendation could not be overturned, as it affected all state officers, describing it as a routine salary review.
However, President Ruto has asked the treasury to review the notice, emphasizing the need for the government to live within its means.
The protests against the finance bill have escalated into calls for President Ruto’s resignation and demands for justice over the deaths of 39 protesters. Recent demonstrations have resulted in looting and increased lawlessness, with police publishing images of 38 wanted individuals. Organizers allege that hired “goons” infiltrated the protests and are considering calling them off altogether.